The rationale for conducting a community survey to obtain information on a specific problem or issue for local school board policy formation is illustrated in this case study. A survey mailed to 10 percent of all district households in a small midwestern city yielded a 31 percent response rate. Survey analysis was utilized by the school board to develop a policy planning approach and to make recommendations. Findings indicate that the crucial first step in the board's policy-making role involves identification of the problem. In this case, the school board decided to develop multi-approach communication vehicles to solve the "knowledge gap" problem in their community. A conclusion is that the community survey is useful as a feedback mechanism to monitor diverse community attitudes and to improve the policy planning process; however, it is useful only if undertaken for a specific purpose and if utilized for planning and action by the school district leadership. Two tables and figures, survey responses, resulting policy decisions, and the survey instrument are included. (7 references) (LMI)